SCHOOLS in Ellesmere Port continue to sink deeper into debt - and many have reached financial breaking point.

That's the disturbing revelation from Gareth Powell, headteacher of Childer Thornton Primary, who says his own school's financial situation is so dire that even pens, books and paper have to be rationed.

He says the school's fast-eroding budget prevents it from employing supply teachers - resulting in staff being stretched to the limit.

Mr Powell says his concerns are shared by teachers throughout the borough, with many schools suffering serious budget problems.

He spoke out in response to news that controversial tests for seven and 11-year-olds are due for a Government shake-up in the wake of concerns they cause too much stress for pupils and teachers.

Mr Powell refused to criticise the tests, saying pupils are 'tested every day', but he admitted there is a constant pressure to produce results.

He said: 'The national vehicles of testing relate solely to English, maths and science. But what about, for example, geography, foreign languages and the development of individual pupils?

'I think the Government and Ofsted are using the tests as a weapon to rate a school.'

He added: 'Our school has a financial deficit, which means we can't supply teaching cover and we have even reduced the amount of pens, books and paper we give to the pupils. And the Government still wants us to raise standards and reach targets.

'We are at financial breaking point and we are not alone - there are other schools in the town in a similar position.'

COUNTY Councillor David Rowlands, Executive Member for Education, said: 'We have set a total budget for Cheshire schools that exceeds the target set by Government for passing on national funding increases.

'In Cheshire the amount spent on schools is 5% more (around #14m) than the Government considers necessary. This is despite Cheshire's position as one of the 40 worst-funded local education authorities (LEA) in the country.'

He added: 'As a LEA, we are here to try to help schools with their budget and we have skilled and experienced staff to do this.

'I ask Childer Thornton school to avail themselves of that assistance by discussing matters with our officers.'